Crane Meadows National Wildlife Refuge

Crane Meadows National Wildlife Refuge is a protected area in Minnesota with wetlands, prairies, oak forests, and woodlands spanning approximately 2,150 acres. These different habitats support over 200 bird species and numerous other animals that use the land year-round or seasonally.

The refuge was established in 1992 by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to protect the large wetland complex of central Minnesota. Its creation reflected efforts to preserve natural habitats in the region from further alteration.

This refuge serves as a place where visitors experience how different habitats and animals coexist in a natural setting. People come here to understand the relationships between the wetlands, prairies, and forests that shape daily wildlife patterns.

A gravel-surfaced walking trail about 3.7 miles long winds through the refuge and is open from sunrise to sunset. The route provides clear views of different habitats and suits most visitors regardless of hiking experience.

The refuge protects one of Minnesota's largest unaltered sedge meadow wetlands within the Rice-Skunk Lakes area. This rare wetland ecosystem is notable for supporting significant sandhill crane populations that depend on its shallow waters and grasses.

Location: Morrison County

Inception: 1992

Website: https://fws.gov/refuge/crane_meadows

GPS coordinates: 45.94140,-94.21000

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:00